04 16 21 Vol. 42 No. 34

THELEAVEN.ORG | VOL. 42, NO. 34 | APRIL 16, 2021

Most Pure Heart students learn from nation’s heroes that

‘THEIR SMILES MATTER’

By Marc and Julie Anderson mjanderson@theleaven.org

T

OPEKA — Sometimes, the best things are right under your own nose.

At least that’s what Christy Sheetz, the seventh- and eighthgrade theology teacher at Most Pure Heart of Mary Grade School in southwest Topeka, said about the eighth grade’s recent class service project.

“We have been preparing for the sacrament of confirmation, and I was hopeful that my students could participate in an all-class service project,” Sheetz said. “Many of them have performed service projects on their own, but there is great value in participating in service altogether.

“I feel like it provides vibrancy and life not only to the surrounding community, but to the participants as well.

It brings people closer together in mission.”

One day, while passing by the Veterans Affairs Medical Center on her way to school, Sheetz said an idea came to her.

“Sometimes the best opportunities are right next door!” she said. “The VA hospital is just blocks from Most Pure Heart of Mary School. My dad is a Vietnam veteran, and [my dad and I] access the VA from time to time.”

“I’ve always thought that our school and the VA are so close,” Sheetz continued. “If we could do something there, it would be a great opportunity for our students to show support for our veterans.”

Sheetz’s next step was to enlist the support of the school administration.

That part, she said, was easy.

“My principal, Eric White, maintains that our kids have missed out on so much [because of the pandemic].

He believes that whatever we can do to provide them with opportunities to perform service or grow in community is a worthy endeavor,” Sheetz said. “I remember I texted the idea to him, and he just came back with: ‘Sounds good.’”

With the principal’s backing, Sheetz turned to the logistics of scheduling a “walking field trip” to “visit” residents of the VA’s Community Living Center. >> See “BOXED” on page 4

PHOTO COURTESY OF MOST PURE HEART OF MARY

From left, Finley Leiker, Broderick Desch and Josslyn Randa, eighth grade students at Most Pure Heart of Mary School in Topeka, visited a Veterans Affairs Community Living Center during their two-part walking field trip held on March 19. After their visit, the students walked to Apple Market, a nearby grocery store, to purchase groceries for the schoolwide Lenten food drive.

Missionary priest dies

Crucial conference

Father Marc Tillia, an archdiocesan priest who spent the majority of his priesthood in Brazil, died on April 1.

The Rural Catholic Youth Conference helps young Catholics plot the course.

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Page 8-9

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ARCHBISHOP

APRIL 16, 2O21 | THELEAVEN.ORG

Vaccines allow us to be back the way we’re meant to be — together

O

n Easter Monday, I received the first dose of the Pfizer COVID vaccine (see page 16).

I could have been vaccinated earlier because of my age. However, having acquired a strong set of antibodies from having contracted and recovered from COVID and aware of the many vulnerable individuals in need of the vaccine’s protection, I was not in a hurry to be vaccinated.

With the declining numbers of hospitalizations and deaths related to COVID, it appears the vaccines are effective. In European countries, where the vaccine rollout has not been as robust as in the United States, we have witnessed the COVID numbers of infections, hospitalizations and deaths unfortunately trending upwards.

Early in the vaccine process, the U.S. Conference of Catholic Bishops (USCCB) urged policy-makers to develop vaccines with no ethical complications, specifically not even a remote connection to abortion.

The bishops raised this concern because several existing nonCOVID vaccines used the HEK 293 cell line that was developed from kidney cells harvested from an aborted fetus. HEK 293 was developed in 1973 by a laboratory in the Netherlands.

The first U.S. approved COVID vaccines (Pfizer and Moderna) did not use HEK cell lines in their production. However, the Pfizer and Moderna vaccines did utilize the HEK cell lines in testing their efficacy.

Subsequently, two additional COVID vaccines (Johnson & Johnson as well as Astra Zeneca) have

LIFE WILL BE VICTORIOUS ARCHBISHOP JOSEPH F. NAUMANN received U.S. approval.

Both of these vaccines used HEK cell lines in their development and production.

There are two ethical problems regarding the HEK cell lines. The first ethical concern is the fact that they were derived from cells from an aborted fetus.

The abortion was not performed in order to produce the HEK cell lines, but researchers took advantage of the availability of the cells from the aborted fetus.

The second ethical concern is that human cells or organs can only be used in scientific research with the permission of the donor or someone who has authority to grant permission if the donor is unable.

In the case of an aborted fetus, it is impossible for the donor to grant permission.

The only other persons that could authorize the cells to be used for research are the parents of the unborn child. However, in the case of abortion, the parents compromised their authority to approve use of their child’s cells because they authorized the abortion, the destruction of their child.

The COVID vaccines were not the first authorized vaccines in the U.S. to employ

the HEK cell line. For instance, the vaccine to protect against rubella or measles utilizes cell lines derived from HEK 293.

Before the COVID pandemic, the Catholic Church had already grappled with the morality of using such vaccines.

Some argue that it is not morally permissible to receive vaccines using the HEK cell line in their development, production or even testing.

They postulate that receiving such vaccines is a case of justifying an immoral means to achieve a good end.

However, this is clearly not the case.

Receiving a vaccine is not an immoral act. The immoral acts occurred when the parents authorized the abortion and when the researchers used human cells without the necessary ethical permission.

In Catholic moral analysis then, the question becomes: What level of cooperation do vaccine recipients have with the immoral actions by the parents, the abortionist and the researchers in developing cell lines that originated from cells recovered from an abortion?

Catholic moral teaching never permits formal cooperation with evil. Formal cooperation involves supporting the immoral actions. To engage in formal cooperation,

one has to intend the immoral act to occur.

A recipient of a vaccine developed from a cell line that used cells recovered from an aborted fetus is not intending for the abortion to occur or for researchers to acquire human cells without proper permission.

In Catholic moral teaching, there is also material cooperation.

Material cooperation can be immediate or mediate. Immediate material cooperation involves providing something that is necessary for the immoral act to occur. Again, the recipient of the vaccine is not providing something necessary for the abortion or the unethical research.

Mediate material cooperation is providing something that is not necessary for the immoral act. Again, the person receiving the vaccine is not providing anything that contributes to the abortion or to the unethical research.

Mediate cooperation can either be proximate or remote. Proximate mediate cooperation means contributing something that leads to the commission of the immoral act. Again, receiving the vaccine does not contribute to the commission of the abortion or the unethical research.

Mediate cooperation can also be remote.

Remote mediate cooperation is an action that does not even lead to the commission of the act. Remote mediate cooperation can be morally permissible.

Receiving a vaccine that used in its development, production or testing the HEK 293 cell line does not even qualify for remote mediate cooperation with the abortion or the unethical research that developed HEK 293.

Thus, some argue there is no moral concern with using cell lines that were developed by unethical research and an abortion that occurred almost 50 years ago.

However, there is one further moral question: Does receiving the vaccine encourage future abortions or future unethical research?

If those receiving the vaccine do not intend to encourage abortion or unethical research, then there is obviously no formal cooperation.

It could be argued

that receiving the vaccine might be remote mediate cooperation with future unethical research. One can morally participate in remote mediate cooperation, if there is a serious proportionate reason to do so. In the case of receiving the COVID vaccine, the proportionate reasons are protecting one’s own health as well as the health of others, especially the most vulnerable.

Receiving the COVID vaccine does not incentivize the creation of new cell lines derived from cells recovered from aborted fetuses, since researchers are motivated to continue to use the existing cell lines because of their predictability.

At the same time, we know that Planned Parenthood has been involved in selling organs and tissues of aborted fetuses to researchers. The harvesting of organs and tissues from abortions is a current problem. This is why the U. S. bishops have encouraged Catholics to communicate to pharmaceutical companies and government officials not to use tissue and organs harvested from abortions in the development of vaccines and/or research.

The bottom line is that Catholics in good conscience can receive the COVID vaccines despite their use of HEK 293 in their efficacy testing (Pfizer and Moderna) or in the production and development (Johnson & Johnson as well as Astra Zeneca). The bishops encourage, when the option is available, to request the Pfizer and Moderna because their connection to HEK 293 is even more remote.

However, both the Vatican and the USCCB have said that while it is permissible to receive the vaccines, Catholics should be advocating with governmental officials and pharmaceutical companies to develop future vaccines with cell lines that have no connection to abortion and to communicate opposition to unethical research that uses human cells, tissues and organs without proper permission from “donors.”

Receiving the COVID vaccines can be an act of charity

by which individuals are seeking to protect not only their own health but the health of others. This concern for the health of others is not only protection from the virus, but also from all the mental health issues caused by social distancing, isolation and the economic stress caused by shutdowns of businesses.

Some may choose not to receive the vaccines in order to give prophetic witness against abortion and the unethical research that involves the harvesting of cells, tissue and organs from aborted fetuses.

I do not claim any competency about possible unanticipated medical side effects of the vaccines. I trust the analysis of the vast majority of those with medical expertise who consider the vaccines to be safe. However, I oppose any efforts to mandate COVID vaccinations. Our government should respect the rights of individuals to make decisions for themselves and their children.

With the widespread availability of vaccines, we have seen dramatic decreases in the number of COVID related hospitalizations and deaths. The vaccines not only prevent the more severe health consequences of COVID, they are also making it possible for businesses, schools and churches to return to pre-COVID normal.

This is beneficial to the mental, emotional and economic health of individuals and the community.

We are not meant to live with physical and social distancing.

We need to be able to socialize — to gather with family and friends.

Our young people need to be back in school and able to participate in athletic and social events.

Finally, vaccines may protect us from COVID. However, vaccines and other therapies can push back death but not defeat it. Only the risen Jesus can give us the ultimate victory over death.

For those who would like to raise their objections to pharmaceutical companies using the HEK cell lines for vaccines, letters can be found here: https://archkck. org/prolife/resources/ vaccines/#take-action.

LOCAL NEWS

APRIL 16, 2021 | THELEAVEN.ORG

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LEAVEN PHOTO BY JOE CORY

Holy Name eighth grader Melanie Villegas reads to her sister, first grader Alexa, in the school’s newly opened library in Kansas City, Kansas.

Partnerships make new library, scholarship event possible

I

magine a beautiful, well-organized and quiet place where students are welcomed to get carried away by a good book.

Such a place now exists within the walls of Holy Name of Jesus School in Kansas City, Kansas. What was once a storeroom is now a library!

It is a place where curiosity, innovative thinking and problem-solving are encouraged. As an important part of the culture of the school, the library helps connect students to their peers, to others within the school and the community, and even with the larger world.

The library is a result of collaboration, donations and the hard work of many people.

“Creating a library space was a top priority as part of our five-year strategic plan,” said Randy Smith, principal.

During his first year at Holy Name, the library only consisted of a few books on tables and an old bookshelf.

“Reading for enjoyment, and to discover and understand, are important skills needed in daily life,” he said.

The need for a library space was evident.

Fortunately, when Bishop Miege High School in Roeland Park set about repurposing its library space, Holy Name pastor Father Anthony Ouellette heard about it.

“

“

By Jan Dixon Special to The Leaven

I LOVE BEING INVOLVED WHERE YOU CAN SEE A NEED AND SEE HOW MUCH IMPACT DONATIONS MAKE. KRISTI ERNSTING CURÉ OF ARS PARISHIONER AND MEMBER OF HOLY NAME SCHOOL’S BUSINESS TEAM

The high school agreed to donate the bookshelves to Holy Name and Father Ouellette went there himself, dismantled a full section, loaded it into his truck and took the pieces home.

With a little ingenuity and more than a little elbow grease, he was able to transform the shelves into ones that would fit perfectly into the new library.

Next, carpet squares were purchased from an Ascension School, Overland Park, contractor at a reduced rate.

Following the carpet installation, painting and some HVAC work, Father Ouellette and maintenance supervisor Mel Reiff installed the shelves and the library began to take shape.

The school had received many books through donations from schools that were closing last spring as well as

from private individuals. This created a need to weed out older, no longer needed items.

Over the summer, student volunteers from St. Teresa’s Academy in Kansas City, Missouri, did the culling and worked to fill the shelves with quality literature and materials that were both age- and reading-level appropriate.

The library was ready to greet students when school opened for the 2020-21 school year.

This new space is stocked with lending books, research materials, teacher resources and adaptive materials. With a flexible multiuse approach, it enables a range of activities, including quiet reading, study, collaboration, performance or community events.

“We have a strong partnership with the University of Kansas. Their speech pathology students use the library and some of the materials to work with our preschoolers on a weekly basis,” said Smith.

Holy Name School also has a strong business team partnership, whose purpose is to support the school in planning and managing finances so it will thrive in years ahead.

Kristi Ernsting, Curé of Ars, Leawood, parishioner and member of Holy Name’s business team, helps with fundraising events as well as marketing and communications.

“I love being involved where you can see a need and see how much impact President Most Rev. Joseph F. Naumann

Publication No. (ISSN0194-9799) Published weekly September through May, excepting the Friday the week after Thanksgiving, and the Friday after Christmas; biweekly June through August. Address communications to: The Leaven, 12615 Parallel Pkwy., Kansas City, KS 66109. Phone: (913) 721-1570; fax: (913) 721-5276; or e-mail at: sub@theleaven.org. Postmaster: Send address changes to The Leaven, 12615 Parallel Pkwy., Kansas City, KS 66109.

For change of address, provide old and new address and parish. Subscriptions $21/year. Periodicals postage paid at Kansas City, KS 66109.

Production Manager Todd Habiger todd.habiger@theleaven.org

Editor Rev. Mark Goldasich, stl frmark.goldasich@theleaven.org

Senior Reporter Joe Bollig joe.bollig@theleaven.org

donations make,” she said.

The pastor and the principal agree that it has been helpful to bring others from outside the local community into the effort to make Holy Name School more viable and healthy.

“Outside perspective is helpful and can generate new ideas and grant access to resources that were not previously available,” said Father Ouellette.

The business team didn’t do a lot of physical work with the new library but have been instrumental in securing funds for “Suds & Scholarships.”

This annual fundraising event will be held on May 3 at the Boulevard Brewing Company in Kansas City, Missouri.

The organizing team invites everyone to help raise funds for much-needed scholarships for Holy Name students by becoming an event sponsor, purchasing a raffle ticket or by donation.

(See website address below).

Michael Morrisey and his wife Patty lead the School Advancement Program for the archdiocese. They work with selected schools and their business teams to continue bringing Catholic education to more students.

“If you are looking to get involved in a way that makes an immediate impact, join us by supporting our ‘Suds and Scholarships’ event. You’ll be glad you did,” said Morrisey.

For more information, go online to: one.bidpal.net/holyname21/welcome.

Managing Editor Anita McSorley anita.mcsorley@theleaven.org

Advertising Coordinator Beth Blankenship beth.blankenship@theleaven.org

Social Media Editor/Reporter Moira Cullings moira.cullings@theleaven.org

4

LOCAL NEWS

APRIL 16, 2O21 | THELEAVEN.ORG

ADORATION AT ST. JAMES PHOTOS BY KATHRYN WHITE

St. James Academy freshman Vanessa Kamau kneels in prayer as Archbishop Naumann leads the school in eucharistic adoration.

Superintendent of archdiocesan schools Vince Cascone joins the school in eucharistic adoration on March 25.

Masked up and socially distanced, a select group of Lenexa’s St. James Academy students join Archbishop Joseph F. Naumann for eucharistic adoration on March 25. The archbishop was back again the next day to lead the remaining students.

Archbishop Joseph F. Naumann continued his tour of archdiocesan high schools by leading eucharistic adoration at St. James Academy, Lenexa, on March 25 and 26. The archbishop had previously visited St. Thomas Aquinas, Bishop Miege and Bishop Ward high schools. Visits to Maur Hill-Mount Academy in Atchison and Hayden High School in Topeka will take place in April.

Archbishop Joseph F. Naumann and Deacon Dana Nearmyer (right) bring the Blessed Sacrament around the school to various classrooms and offices. From left are: junior Kody Hellwig, junior Mia Staley, junior Tre Clark and senior Alaina Wilkes.

Boxed food drive with Catholic Charities capped off field day Since the eighth grade class still operates in cohorts, two trips were planned with careful consideration given to the residents’ health and safety, as well as that of the students.

Additionally, Sheetz also tried to minimize the disruption to the rest of the students’ school day.

With the logistics out of the way, Sheetz sent home permission slips and was elated when every student returned theirs.

“The parents were in full support.

Every single student in the eighth grade had a permission slip and was allowed to go,” Sheetz said. “I think our parents realize that giving service to others is worth any risk we might have encountered. Our families are simply incredible.”

So, on March 19, Sheetz led the two groups on their “walking field trips,” the first part of which was the visit to the veterans at the Community Living Center. On the way back to school, both groups stopped at the Apple Market, a nearby grocery store, to purchase food for the schoolwide boxed food drive organized by Catholic Charities.

The students were only the second group of guests the veterans had received during the past year due to COVID-19, and Sheetz said that fact alone brought smiles — not just to the

“

“

>> Continued from page 1

IT WAS REALLY HARD TO LEAVE THAT DAY. THE VETS DIDN’T WANT US TO GO AND THE KIDS DIDN’T WANT TO GO EITHER. CHRISTY SHEETZ SEVENTH- AND EIGHTH-GRADE THEOLOGY TEACHER AT MOST PURE HEART OF MARY SCHOOL, TOPEKA

PHOTO COURTESY OF MOST PURE HEART OF MARY

Students at Most Pure Heart of Mary Grade School in Topeka pack up boxed food items for the school’s Lenten food drive. The food drive ended with a schoolwide cereal domino during which Father Nathan Haverland, the parish’s pastor, was served a bowl of cereal by eighth graders. faces of the veterans themselves but to the visitors as well. The best one, she said, came from a man whose nickname is Uncle Bob. “He was quite animated and kept inviting us inside. Uncle Bob was so happy to see us — and that joy — it just spread. As we were leaving, one of my eighth grade boys looked at me and said, ‘Uncle Bob is a hero.’ I couldn’t

agree more,” Sheetz said.

The students, Sheetz said, learned a lot during the visit.

“I think they learned that our presence matters, their smiles matter. It was really hard to leave that day,” she said. “The vets didn’t want us to go and the kids didn’t want to go either. That’s what I will remember most. That the kids didn’t want to leave and knew

that being there was important. More than anything, we learned that we need each other.”

Eighth grader Katelyn Norris agreed.

“We got to bring excitement to the people at the VA. And during COVID, they don’t get a lot of visitors,” said Norris. “So, it was very nice to make their day.”

Additionally, Norris said she gained a deeper respect for our nation’s military veterans.

“They could have died [fighting for our freedom],” she said. “You need to respect them, you should go see them and you should thank them for their service.”

LOCAL NEWS

APRIL 16, 2021 | THELEAVEN.ORG

5

MAN ON A MISSION

Missionary priest Marc Tillia dies in his adopted home of Brazil

By Joe Bollig joe.bollig@theleaven.org

K

LEAVEN FILE PHOTO

In the impoverished and undeveloped region of Bahia, Brazil, Father Marc Tillia flew his airplane or drove a Jeep to remote villages where Catholics saw a priest perhaps twice a year. There, he’d conduct a backlog of multiple baptisms, first Communions, confirmations, marriages and funerals.

“

ANSAS CITY, Kan. — Father Marc Charles Tillia was a Trappist monk whose dream of becoming a missionary was made possible in the most unlikely way.

In 1962, while studying in Rome, he met and befriended a fellow son of the Midwest who was far from home.

His new friend just happened to be a bishop attending the Second Vatican Council at the time. But his friend would be promoted a few short years later to archbishop — Archbishop Ignatius J. Strecker of the Archdiocese of Kansas City in Kansas.

Although there were a few steps in between, it was Archbishop Strecker who would eventually welcome Father Tillia into the archdiocesan priesthood and make Father Tillia’s dream to become a missionary a reality.

Father Tillia died on April 1 at the age of 89 in the town of Sao Gabriel, Brazil — in his beloved mission country. There, he had been cared for by a former student, Cileuza Sousa, and her husband. His funeral was on Good Friday at St. Joseph Parish in Sento Se with burial in the parish cemetery.

A grateful parishioner paid tribute in this Instagram post: “Father Marcos was a priest with a spiritual, material and social-historical legacy. [A pilot], he flew over obstacles, saved lives, evangelized and catechized [people near and] from Sento Se, sheltered and educated young peasants, fulfilled dreams, built knowledge, formed citizens, and joined forces in the construction of the 7 de Setembro College.”

Marc Charles Tillia was born on Feb. 7, 1932, in Ottumwa, Iowa. He was one of the six children of Charles Andrew and Clara (Lake) Tillia. The family moved to Eagle Grove, Iowa, and then to Jackson, Minnesota. The family belonged to St. Wenceslaus Parish (now Good Shepherd).

Marc graduated in May 1949 from Jackson Public High School. He graduated in 1953 from St. John’s University in Collegeville, Minnesota.

And then he surprised his family.

“He came home from St. John’s and said, ‘I want to join the Trappist monastery in Dubuque. Can you take me, please?’” recalled his sister Carolyn Tillia.

His father took him to New Melleray Abbey.

Marc studied theology and went to Assumption Abbey near Ava, Missouri. He was ordained a priest by Bishop Charles Helmsing on Jan. 18, 1959, at Assumption Abbey.

The order sent Father Tillia to Rome, where he received a licentiate in philosophy from the Pontifical University of St. Thomas Aquinas (the Angelicum) in 1962.

When he returned to the United States, he received his abbey’s permission to serve at parishes and American Indian missions in Tucson, Phoenix and Douglas, Arizona. He also learned to fly.

But he wanted to go much farther.

“Soon after I was sent to the Archdiocese of Kansas City in Kansas in October 1969,” wrote Archbishop Strecker, “[Father Tillia] came to visit me.

“At that time, Father Thomas

“ “FATHER MARCOS WAS A PRIEST WITH A SPIRITUAL, MATERIAL AND SOCIALHISTORICAL LEGACY. [A PILOT], HE FLEW OVER OBSTACLES, SAVED LIVES, EVANGELIZED AND CATECHIZED [PEOPLE NEAR AND] FROM SENTO SE. A TRIBUTE TO FATHER TILLIA POSTED ON INSTAGRAM

LEAVEN FILE PHOTO

Father Marc Charles Tillia, in this undated file photo, was a Trappist monk who wanted to become a missionary. A friendship with Archbishop Ignatius J. Strecker allowed that dream to come true. Father Tillia died on April 1 at the age of 89 in Sao Gabriel, Brazil.

Murphy, CSSR, who had been a missionary along the Amazon for some years, was appointed the Bishop of Juazeiro, Brazil. . . . He soon appealed to me for ‘help in his mission diocese’ — for funds, but even more so for priests.

I visited with Father Tillia and suggested he confer with Bishop Murphy.”

Father Tillia needed financial support. Archbishop Strecker offered to provide a salary, health benefits and travel funds. Archdiocesan parishes, notably Holy Cross in Overland Park, raised funds for Father Tillia’s missions. He was incardinated permanently as an archdiocesan priest in 1976.

Father Tillia bought a light airplane and flew it to the hardscrabble state

of Bahia in Brazil in October 1969. He spent the rest of his life serving the people in and around the municipality of Sento Se. In this impoverished and undeveloped region of Bahia, Father Tillia flew his airplane or drove a Jeep to remote villages where Catholics saw a priest perhaps twice a year. There, he’d conduct a backlog of multiple baptisms, first Communions, confirmations, marriages and funerals.

A 1984 letter from the Society for the Propagation of the Faith noted that Father Tillia’s Sao Jose Paroquial (St. Joseph Parish) “consists of 120 towns and villages with a total population of about 40,000 persons. The [Diocese of Juazeiro] is about one-half the size of Kansas with a total population of over 300,000 Catholics and is served by 15 priests.” Sento Se had a population of about 3,000.

The educational system was bad, so he built a school, sponsored students and taught. He established a model farm

Pastoral assignments •1962 — Pastor of St. Nicholas Parish in Ava, Missouri • 1964 — Pastor of St. Louis Parish in Phoenix • 1967 — Pastor of Immaculate Conception Parish in Douglas, Arizona • 1968 — Pastor of Mother of Sorrows Parish in Tucson, Arizona • 1970 — Pastor of Sao Afonsos Parish in Juazeiro, Bahia, Brazil • 1970 — Co-pastor and later pastor of Sao Jose Parish in Sento Se, Bahia, Brazil • 2012 — Retired

and taught farmers to grow better crops and form cooperatives. He helped build a flour mill and an irrigation system. He established airstrips and chapels, and helped relocate Sento Se when a new dam flooded the old townsite.

“In some ways I operate more like a bishop than a pastor,” he once said.

At his funeral, the homilist had this to say to those who mourned Father Tillia’s passing: “The people of Sento Se were privileged to have a flying and faithful priest. . . . [And] even though looking at the sky [evokes] tears for our Father Marco, we are not sad, because we recognize his legacy and we are grateful for everything he has done for us.

“We must not mourn his death, [but] must thank God for his deeds and for having him as a protector — a caregiver — of souls and of lives.”

Father Tillia was proceeded in death by his parents, his brothers John and Thomas, and sisters Dorothea Parry and Mari Ann Von Ohlen. He is survived by his sister Carolyn Tillia.

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LOCAL NEWS

APRIL 16, 2O21 | THELEAVEN.ORG

Sometimes a parent’s superpower resides in staying the course

By Deacon Tony Zimmerman Special to The Leaven

W

hen I was in formation for the permanent diaconate, there was one word that spoke to my heart: “perseverance.”

I shadowed the women of my parish as they visited the people confined to the nursing home. We called on one elderly woman who spent most of her time lying flat on her back in bed. I was told she TOOLS FOR was constant in her FAMILIES prayer to God. Growing as There was a hoDisciples of liness that I experiJesus enced standing by her bedside. Those with me told her I was in formation for the permanent diaconate. She turned her head, and looking at me, said I would be ordained if I persevered. I walked away moved by her gaze and words.

A few weeks later, I was introduced to Bishop Robert Finn who would later ordain me. Once again, upon being told I was in formation to be ordained as a permanent deacon, he looked into my eyes and said I would be ordained if I persevered. There was that word that moved my heart.

As I meditated on the words of the Exsultet, proclaimed on Holy Saturday, there was that word once again: “Therefore, O Lord, we pray you that this candle, hallowed to the honor of your name, may persevere undimmed.” That characteristic of perseverance, of bringing the light of Christ to the world, is not just meant for those in formation for the diaconate.

CNS PHOTO/SARAH WEBB, CATHOLICPHILLY.COM

Take a particular struggle to Jesus when receiving the Eucharist.

When our children are baptized, parents and godparents are told that the light of Christ, represented by the baptismal candle, is entrusted to them to be kept burning brightly. We show this quality to our children by the way we handle adversity: • Instead of ignoring the stresses of daily life, we raise them up in prayer,

especially at meals and bedtime, asking God for the graces of patience, courage and peace.

• Go weekly as a family to receive the graces and strength to persevere, found in the sacrament of reconciliation.

• Take a particular struggle, such as refraining from gossiping, to Jesus when we receive the Eucharist.

ACROSS 1 A king of the Amalekites 5 Long fish 9 Prego’s competition 13 Ordered 14 Club rule 15 Flightless birds 16 Tribe 17 Last letter of Greek alphabet 18 Loch __ monster 19 Island inhabitant 21 Eden tempter 23 Relative 25 Self-righteous 26 Farm credit administration (abbr.)

29 Hind 31 Postage 34 Wing 35 Afloat (2 wds.)

37 Pineapple brand 39 Skunk-like African animal 41 Tease 42 He was resurrected 43 Easter __ 44 Marsh bird 46 Sixth sense 47 Blocky 50 Salty water masses COPYRIGHT © BY CLIFF LEITCH, THE CHRISTIAN BIBLE REFERENCE SITE, WWW.CHRISTIANBIBLEREFERENCE.ORG. USED BY PERMISSION

Catholic Diocese of Wichita | Director of Diocesan Office for Leadership in Missionary Discipleship: The Catholic

Diocese of Wichita is seeking an exceptional Catholic man or woman to serve as our full-time Director of Diocesan Office for Leadership in Missionary Discipleship. This is a newly created position that will support the Diocesan Pastoral Plan and respond to Pope Francis’ call for Catholics to become fully alive as Missionary Disciples. This individual will provide resources, training and coaching opportunities, for pastors, parish leaders, school faculties and Diocesan Offices. This will involve awakening, empowering and accompanying the faithful of the Diocese to become leaders in missionary discipleship.

Please submit a cover letter, resume with references and salary requirements to: pfeiferk@catholicdioceseofwichita.org Application deadline is on or before noon, April 20, 2021. For information regarding requirements, please check our job posting at CatholicDioceseofWichita.org/careers.

51 Reserved 52 Biblical weed 54 __ Major (Big Dipper) 56 Runny 59 Sea between Turkey

and Greece 63 Leaky faucet noise 64 Trickery 66 Competent 67 Cabbage cousin 68 Parasite 69 Inform 70 Males 71 Women’s magazine 72 Son of Seth DOWN 1 The alphabet 2 Merry 3 First man 4 Italian City 5 Exercise place 6 Beers 7 Storms 8 Groups of bees 9 Outlaw 10 Last word of a prayer 11 Wind 12 Ship initials

• When we witness our children showing a particular virtue, place a note in their lunch or on their pillow praising their efforts.

• Share examples of everyday life, not just limited to those found in faith, such as the athlete who takes extra batting practice, or the soccer player who practices shots on goal.

14 Easter hat 20 Relating to the hearing 22 Set 24 Chores 26 Disconcert 27 Jams 28 Expression of disgust 30 Horse controls 32 Leader of Exodus 33 Rich 36 Adios 38 Catch sight of (KJV) 40 Different forms of elements 42 Father of King David 45 Easter walk 48 Uncooked 49 Toy with 53 Register 55 Biblical Greek word for love 56 German “Mrs.” 57 Easter flower 58 Ancient European region 60 Black 61 Too 62 Meshes 63 Dekagram (abbr.)

65 Wield Solution on page 10

LOCAL NEWS

APRIL 16, 2021 | THELEAVEN.ORG Kenneth and Diane (Olberding) Keegan, members of Sacred H e a r t Parish, B a i leyville, will celebrate their 50th wedding anniversary on April 24. The couple was married on April 24, 1971, at Sts. Peter and Paul Church in Seneca

by Father Leo Ortman. Their children are: Mike Keegan, Kelli Uphaus, Kristi Roesch and Trevor Keegan. They also have eight grandchildren.

Cathy and Jim Stanley, members of Sacred H e a r t of Jesus Parish, Shawnee, will celebrate their 50th we d d i n g a n n ive r sary on April 17. The couple was married on April 17, 1971, at Visitation Church, Des Moines, Iowa, by Msgr.

Raymond Conley. They will celebrate with a car parade for friends and family on April 17 at 2 p.m., followed by a small family party. The couple has two children: Brian Stanley and Jennifer Stanley Mullinax. They also have seven grandchildren.

Karl and Carol (Dragosh) McCarty, members of Holy Family Parish, Kansas City, Kansas, celebrated their 65th wedding anniversary on April 14. The couple was married on April 14, 1956, at Holy Family Church, Kansas City, Kansas, by Father Heliodore Mejak. Their children are: Gary McCarty and Brian McCarty. They also have seven grandchildren and six great-grandchildren.

Hubert and Evelyn (Jurgensmeier) S u t h e r, m e m bers of St. James Parish, Wetmore, will celebrate their 70th wedding anniversary on April 18. The couple was married on April 18, 1951, at St. Augustine Church, Fidelity. Their children are: Harlan Suther, Vickie Suther (deceased), Janet Suther and Yvonne Speck. They have four grandchildren and six great-grandchildren.

Cards can be sent to them at: P.O. Box 103, Wetmore, KS 66550.

Russell and Mary Ann (Deters) Haverkamp, members of Sacred H e a r t Parish, B a i leyville, will celebrate their 60th wedding anniversary with a Mass and family gathering. The couple was married on April 11, 1961, at St. Mary Church, St. Benedict, by Father Leander Scheier. Their children are: Theresa Sudbeck and Jim Haverkamp.

They also have seven grandchildren and nine great-grandchildren.

Andrea

(Stevens) and Louis Baratta, members of St. Rose Philippine Duchesne Parish, Westwood, will celebrate their 50th wedding anniversary on April 23. The couple was married on April 23, 1971, by Father William Kleffman at St. Agnes Church, Omaha, Nebraska. Their children are: Heather Enfield and Marc Baratta. They also have six grandchildren.

Gerald and Patricia (McHugh) Stanley, members of Our Lady of Lourdes Parish, LaCygne, will celebrate their 50th we d d i n g a n n ive r sary on April 16.

The couple was married on April 16, 1971, at Holy Trinity Church in Paola

by Father Richard Wempe. Their children are: Eric, Amy and Ian. They also have seven grandchildren and two great-grandchildren.

Gerald and Sharon Vojtko, members of Holy Trinity Parish, Lenexa, will celebrate their 60th wedding anniversary on April 22. The couple was married on April 22, 1961, at St. Pius X Church, Mission. A small family celebration will be held at a future date.

Their children are: Joseph Vojtko and Kathleen Quetel.

ANNIVERSARY submissions POLICY: The Leaven prints 50, 60, 65 and 70th anniversary notices. They are for parishioners in the Archdiocese of Kansas City in Kansas DEADLINE: 10 days before the desired publication date.

INCLUDE THE FOLLOWING: • the couple’s names • their parish • the date they were married • church and city where they were married • what they are doing to celebrate • date of the celebration • names of children (no spouses) • number of grandchildren and great-grandchildren; SUBMISSION GUIDELINES: • Emailed photos need to be 200 dpi or 200 KB in size.

WHERE TO SUBMIT: Email: todd.habiger@theleaven.org.

7 Announcement

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n Oct. 18, 2020, Father Andrew Strobl announced to parishioners that he had requested and was granted by Archbishop Joseph F. Naumann a leave to participate in a spiritual wellness and priestly renewal program. Father Strobl has completed the program and is now residing at and providing sacramental assistance to Sacred Heart of Jesus Parish, Shawnee, until new priest assignments take effect in July.

Scholarships available for nontraditional students in the KC metro area

T

he Kansas City, Kansas, Women’s Chamber Foundation is accepting applications for its 2021 schol-

arships.

The chamber’s purpose is to uplift women and encourage leadership opportunities while highlighting their individual strengths.

Members are women who represent various industries, including: business, education and health care.

Scholarships are awarded to women who reside in the Kansas City metro area and are nontraditional students enrolled in any post-secondary institution.

El Centro, Inc., a social service outreach ministry of the Archdiocese of Kansas City in Kansas, is a member of the chamber and will help select the scholarship recipients.

Scholarship amounts vary based on the available funds and the individual need.

The deadline to submit an application is June 1 by 5 p.m. To apply, go online to: bit.ly/KCKWCF2021, or send an email to: kckwcfoundation@ gmail.com for more information.

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IT GIVES THEM PERMISSION TO STRIVE FOR HOLINESS. ANGIE BITTNER RURAL YOUTH MINISTRY OUTREACH COORDINATOR

THE HOUSE OF IDEAS

Rural Catholic Youth Conference lets young people plot their own course Story by Moira Cullings

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ILLIAMSBURG — It was a long time coming, but the wait was worth it.

“This was the first big event that I’ve been to since COVID hit, so I was really excited to get out and about again,” said Morgan Sumner, a parishioner at St. Boniface Parish in Scipio.

“I was just happy that I finally got to spend time with people around my age,” she added.

Sumner was one of 120 teenagers who attended this year’s Rural Catholic Youth Conference (RCYC) from March 27-28.

She’s been going to school all year but admitted “it’s been sad” because of the restrictions in place, which can leave her feeling distanced from her peers.

Although the event implemented the standard COVID precautions like mask-wearing and social distancing, the atmosphere made it easy to connect with other teens on a deeper level, said Sumner.

The third-ever RCYC in the Archdiocese of Kansas City in Kansas was the most unusual so far — but perhaps also the most special.

The ranch to the rescue Typically held in November during the opposite year of the National Catholic Youth Conference, RCYC was postponed twice due to COVID-19 restrictions.

The venue was eventually moved from a hotel in Topeka to Prairie Star Ranch in Williamsburg.

“It wasn’t feasible for us to get all of our volunteers and open it up to enough people [at the hotel],” said Angie Bittner, rural youth ministry outreach coordinator for the archdiocese.

“We looked at the ranch [and saw] we could do it there and maybe have a little more space to move about and fresh air,” she said.

It seemed that the third time was a charm for the rural event.

The ranch catered to the group of 120 participants and 30 staff with its ample land and open indoor hangar space.

The format was similar to past years — with opportunities for Mass, eucharistic

| Photos by Kathryn White

To learn more Angie Bittner and her rural youth ministry outreach team provide several opportunities for young people throughout the year.

To learn more and to stay updated on future events, visit the website at: archkck. org/outreach-support/outreach-ministries/ rural-youth.

Participants in the Rural Catholic Youth Conference camped in groups inside the hangar at Prairie Star Ra with T-shirts, prayer journals and information from the various archdiocesan offices. Clockwise from left Moylan, all from Immaculate Conception Parish in St. Marys.

adoration and various talks — but with a more lenient schedule, said Bittner.

“It was a more relaxed schedule because we had to be a little bit flexible,” she said. “We couldn’t do all the breakout [sessions] that we’ve had in the past.”

Malea Karnes, a member of the Northeast Kansas Rural Youth Council (NEKRYC) and parishioner at St. Columbkille in Blaine, said she didn’t mind the changes in this year’s event.

“We were supposed to have RCYC back in November,” she said, “so I was just glad we were able to have it now, even if it was postponed.

“I see some of my friends from NEKRYC at events for school, but it’s hard to meet up at other times. Having RCYC was another way we all could connect with each other as well as in our faith.”

Created by teens for teens The teenaged NEKRYC members played a key role in planning RCYC. Working with the theme “For Such a Time as This,” inspired by the Book of Esther, the group met regularly over Zoom to share ideas, said Karnes.

“It was really cool when we got to Prairie Star Ranch and when we got to set everything up,” she said. “It was great watching all of our ideas come to life.”

Bittner said the teens’ input is critical to RCYC’s success.

“If we didn’t consult kids about what we’re doing,” she said, “then it’s not going to be relevant to kids.

“Us ‘old people’ don’t necessarily know what they need or what they desire, so [their input is] a huge part of it.”

Keynote speaker Ennie Hickman, founder of Del Rey Collective in Houston, talks to participants about loving your neighbor right in your own neighborhood.

The NEKRYC leaders helped choose the topics discussed at RCYC — from anxiety and depression to other struggles young people today face.

They also presented a skit at the beginning of the weekend to explain the event’s theme.

Their presence offered an example of teenagers who aren’t afraid of their faith, which is a part of NEKRYC’s greater mission year-round.

“We try to inspire others, especially our fellow teens, in their Catholic faith,” said Karnes.

Sumner said it’s not every day she gets to interact with so many Catholics

Faith Henry, of St. Mary Parish in St. Benedict, chat March 27. her own age, especially those who are serving in leadership roles.

“They were super-welcoming and open to me,” she said. “I could really feel God’s connection through them. It really helped me want to be closer to God and more faithful.”

So much so, she added, that it inspired her to apply to join NEKRYC. Sumner hopes to use her own gifts and outgoing personality to help other

anch in Williamsburg. Each “fire pit” had a swag box/tool kit for evangelization to equip the teens, filled are: Grace Smith (black jacket), Brenna Smith, Andrea Fiedler, Tara Stallbaumer, Sarah Lett and Catherine

Austin Spellman, of Sacred Heart Parish in Paxico, shoots a game of pool during a break in the action at RCYC.

ts with Archbishop Joseph F. Naumann at the Rural Catholic Youth Conference at Prairie Star Ranch on teens grow in faith.

“I really felt like it’s God calling me to be part of NEKRYC to use that big personality I have to spread the word of the Lord,” she said.

Community of young Catholics Bittner is moved by the uplifting,

faith-filled community NEKRYC has created.

“I think it’s contagious,” she said. “It’s why a lot of other kids see that it’s OK to have fun and celebrate Jesus at the same time.

“If there are any [rural] kids that are desiring to have a group of friends that really is running toward the Lord, you can find that in this youth council.

“You might not always find it at

RCYC participants — (from left) Karly Tangeman, of St. Mary, St. Benedict; Deacon Zordel (behind), of St. Stanislaus, Rossville; Bella Jurado, of Holy Trinity, Paola; Grace Spellman, of Sacred Heart, Paxico; Timothy Rziha, of St. Benedict, Atchison; and Faith Henry, of St. Mary — are all smiles during snack time. school. Even at church, there might just be one other kid your age.”

But at NEKRYC, Bittner continued, it’s a whole community of young Catholics, and “it gives them permission to strive for holiness.”

For Karnes, NEKRYC and the opportunities it’s provided have been priceless.

“Joining NEKRYC was one of the best decisions of my life,” she said. “I have met some of my closest friends through this experience and have grown in my faith.

“Being able to inspire others my age is an amazing thing, and I hope other teens think about joining NEKRYC in the future.”

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NATION

APRIL 16, 2O21 | THELEAVEN.ORG

Wisconsin student gives car won in raffle to co-worker

By Sam Lucero Catholic News Service

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PPLETON, Wis. (CNS) — Raised in a family where faith is important, Haley Bridges has always followed the Golden Rule.

“I’ve grown up with being told to be nice to others, so it’s like second nature to help anyone in general,” said Bridges, a junior at St. Francis Xavier High School. In January, friends and strangers witnessed how Bridges put into practice the teaching found in Matthew 7:12.

Bridges began a part-time job at a Chick-fil-A restaurant in Appleton in August. Two months later, Hokule’a Taniguchi, who had moved to nearby Neenah, Wisconsin, from Hawaii to live with her sister, began working at the fast-food eatery.

The two became fast friends.

“When she first talked to me, she started off with a very cheesy pickup line,” said Bridges. “She’s just very goofy like me, so we both got along very well together.”

Bridges soon learned that Hoku, as friends call Taniguchi, rode a bike to and from work, which was about a fivemile round trip.

“One day, she asked me to take her home after work,” Bridges said. “That’s when I found out about her whole living situation. I was kind of shocked because, obviously, Wisconsin weather is kind of bad. I would always help her if she needed rides and make sure she would get there safely.”

On Jan. 10, the restaurant held an employee Christmas party at a Grand Meridian banquet hall. The event included raffle prizes for employees.

Bridges said she had heard rumors that a car would be given away.

“When we arrived at the Grand Meridian, one of my friends came up to me and said, ‘There’s actually a car there,’” Bridges said. “Maybe 10 of my friends and me, we decided, ‘Hey, if we get the car, we don’t need a car. We will pull our tickets for Hoku.’”

The car, a 2008 Hyundai Elantra, was the last item to be drawn.

“I didn’t need a second chance to think about it. It’s her car if I win,” Bridges said. “My name got called and we looked at each other and she just started crying. We ran up to each other

CNS PHOTO/SAM LUCERO, THE COMPASS

Haley Bridges and Hokule’a Taniguchi pose for a photo at Chick-fil-A in Appleton, Wisconsin, Feb. 20. After learning that Taniguchi biked to work, Bridges gave her a car she had won in a Christmas raffle. and hugged each other. Everyone else just ran up to us and hugged us. We were just so happy for Hoku that she could finally have her own car. It was so surreal.”

Chick-fil-A posted the event on its Facebook page the following day and the two young women were interviewed by news outlets.

“Even after all this news coverage, me and Hoku have been very humble about it,” Bridges said. “There’s really no need to brag. It’s very cool, but we are still living our normal lives.”

She said her Catholic faith has taught her about sacrifice and charity.

“I go to a Catholic school, so that’s what I’ve been taught growing up,” she said. “Giving has always been something that I want to do. And I want to help people, so I had the opportunity to give something major to one of my

friends that was very life-changing for both of us.”

Although she did not make a fuss about it, Bridges said she shared the incident with her parents, Ann Jennerjahn and Jim Bridges, and grandmother, Pat Sorenson.

“At first, my mom’s reaction was ‘. . . You gave away a car? What?’ Then later she was proud of me because she always knew I was like this,” Bridges said. “My grandma was also proud of me.

I’ve never seen her this happy before.”

Bridges also told her theology teacher at school, Ann McKnight.

“My theology teacher is the one I’ve been telling the most to,” she said. “So she’s heard it all from the start. She’s just really proud that it all happened.”

“Haley’s act of kindness speaks louder than any words I can impart about our faith,” McKnight told The

Compass, newspaper of the Diocese of Green Bay. “Haley did not think twice about gifting the car to someone who needed it more than her. The fact that, out of all the people there, Haley had the winning ticket shows how God used her selflessness for someone else.”

The theology teacher said Bridges’ faith formation and her job at Chickfil-A “came together as a witness [to the belief] that ‘to give is better than to receive.’ As her theology teacher, it is a blessing to witness.”

As it turned out, Bridges’ kindness was paid forward. After donating the car to Taniguchi, Bridges’ aunt, Debbie Fabel, held a Facebook fundraiser to help Bridges pay off her own car. She had been paying $50 a month on her $4,000 car and the online fundraiser raised enough to cover her remaining payments.

Crossword solution

APRIL 16, 2021 | THELEAVEN.ORG

WORLD

11

Major conference on priesthood slated for 2022

By Cindy Wooden Catholic News Service

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ATICAN CITY (CNS) — Increasing vocations to the priesthood, improving the way laypeople and priests work together and ensuring that service, not power, motivates the request for ordination are all possible outcomes of a major symposium being planned by the Vatican in February 2022.

“A theological symposium does not claim to offer practical solutions to all the pastoral and missionary problems of the church, but it can help us deepen the foundation of the church’s mission,” said Cardinal Marc Ouellet, prefect of the Congregation for Bishops and the chief organizer of the symposium planned for Feb. 17-19, 2022.

The symposium, “Toward a Fundamental Theology of the Priesthood,” seeks to encourage an understanding of ministerial priesthood that is rooted in the priesthood of all believers conferred at baptism, getting away from the idea of ordained ministry as belonging to “ecclesiastical power,” the cardinal said at a news conference April 12.

The three-day gathering, the cardinal said, is aimed specifically at bishops and delegations of theologians and vocations personnel from every country, although it will be open to other theologians and people interested in the topic.

The relationship between baptism and ordained ministry needs greater emphasis today, Cardinal Ouellet said, but reviewing the foundations of a theology of priesthood also “involves

By Carol Glatz Catholic News Service

V CNS PHOTO/PAUL HARING

Pope Francis greets Cardinal Marc Ouellet, prefect of the Congregation for Bishops, during the sign of peace at a Mass in St. Peter’s Basilica at the Vatican in this Jan. 6, 2020, file photo.

Cardinal Ouellet announced plans for a major international conference at the Vatican in 2022 on the theology of the priesthood. ecumenical questions not to be ignored, as well as the cultural movements that question the place of women in the church.”

The recent synods of bishops on the family, on young people and on the church in the Amazon all show the urgency of questions surrounding priesthood and relationships among people with different vocations in the church, the cardinal said.

Father Vincent Siret, rector of the Pontifical French Seminary in Rome, said a deeper reflection on priesthood — both the priesthood of all the baptized and ministerial priesthood — is essential for those engaged in training men for the priesthood.

“The baptismal life is the fundamental human vocation, and all must exercise the priesthood received at baptism. Ministry is at the service of this,” he said. “Reflecting on the fundamental theology of the priesthood will also make it possible to return to the justifications for priestly celibacy and the way it is lived.”

The Catholic Church requires most priests in its Latin rite to be celibate.

While Cardinal Ouellet, Father Siret and Tenace all mentioned the importance of celibacy in the Latin rite, none of them mentioned the traditions of the Eastern Catholic churches that continue to have both married and celibate clergy.

Scottish bishops add free speech, thought to election concerns

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LASGOW, Scotland (CNS) — The bishops of Scotland have made freedom of speech, expression, thought, conscience and religion a priority for Catholic voters for the first time.

In a 1,000-word letter issued ahead of the May 6 election, free speech is listed among key categories of concern alongside the protection of human life, family and work, poverty, human trafficking, the environment and Catholic education.

“If Scotland is to be a tolerant, open,

Five priests, two nuns kidnapped in Haiti

diverse country then we must be free to discuss and debate ideas, even those which are deemed by some to be controversial,” said the letter signed by the country’s seven bishops and the administrator for the Archdiocese of Glasgow. It was released April 11.

“Whilst being mindful of the need to protect citizens from hate, government must not overstep into the realm of unjust restrictions on free speech, free expression and freedom of thought, conscience and religion,” the letter said.

“This must include, among others,

the freedom to express belief in the biological reality of sex and gender,” it added.

In March, Scotland passed the Hate Crime and Public Order (Scotland) Bill, which Catholic and Protestant leaders opposed.

They feared a new offense of “stirring up hatred” against certain groups could lead to the prosecution of Christians solely for disagreeing with gender ideology and same-sex marriage or for possessing literature promoting Christian sexual ethics.

ATICAN CITY (CNS) — The latest victims of rampant kidnappings in Haiti are five priests, two nuns and three laypeople who were abducted together on their way to a parish near the capital of Port-auPrince early April 11.

Kidnapping cases happen almost daily in Haiti, which has been experiencing increasing insecurity, political turmoil and gang violence; it is the poorest country in the Americas.

“This new case is a reflection of the collapse of the security apparatus of the state and the country. No one seems to be safe anymore,” Redemptorist Father Renold Antoine told Fides, the news agency of the Congregation for the Evangelization of Peoples, April 12.

“Outlawed groups continue to sow fear and sadness in the hearts of the population,” he said.

Local sources confirmed with Fides the names of the 10 people kidnapped in the town of Croix-des-Bouquets. They were: four priests who are members of the Priestly Society of St. Jacques, one of whom is a French national; a priest of the Archdiocese of Cap-Haïtien; a French member of the Sisters of Providence of Pommeraye; one family friend and three relatives of another priest, who was not captured. The relatives included his aunt, a member of the Little Sisters of the Child Jesus.

Father Ludger Mazile, secretary of the Haitian bishops’ conference, told Agence France Presse April 12 that the kidnappers had demanded a ransom of $1 million for the group’s release.

The Conference of Haitian Religious issued a statement expressing its “deep regret” over the latest kidnapping, but also its “anger at the inhumane situation we have been going through for more than a decade,” Fides reported.

Kidnappings for ransom by armed gangs have increased over the past several months.

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CLASSIFIEDS

12 EMPLOYMENT Lead preschool teacher - St. Michael the Archangel Preschool is seeking a lead teacher responsible for the management of the classroom. The lead preschool teacher is also responsible for carrying out the rules and regulations of our licensure through the Kansas Department of Health and Environment and for maintaining principles of sound Catholic education. If you are interested, please contact Jennie Wente, preschool director, at (913) 402-3971 or send resume and cover letter to: jennie.wente@stmichaelcp.org.

Professional services coordinator - L’Arche Heartland is seeking a professional services coordinator. This is a highly responsible position that reports directly to the community leader. Duties include: sharing life with community members; training of new assistants on state regulatory processes and Heartland policies and procedures; oversight of all medical support/attend appointments as needed; liaison with Heartland Homecare; audit all medication deliveries; creates/verifies/edits all MARs; liaison with nurse consultant, scheduling medication trainings and MAR audits; prepares all needed documentation for the BASIS; attends all BASIS meetings; helps write behavioral support plans (BSPs); attends all BSP meetings; completes risk assessments and obtains human rights committee approval and signatures; conducts threemonth and annual reviews for assistants; maintains personnel files for assistants and follows disciplinary process according to policies and procedures; conducts oversight and verification of household accounts and core member accounts at least monthly; maintains all 17 core member contact notes, monthly reviews and maintain archive files at the office; attend weekly and monthly meetings; attends community gatherings of formation and celebration; conducts oversight of house vehicle maintenance.

This position requires a bachelor’s degree and supervisory experience. This is a salaried position which includes a favorable benefits package. L’Arche experience preferred.

We are an equal opportunity employer.

Social mission and outreach coordinator - St. Michael the Archangel Parish is seeking a proactive, organized and approachable professional to serve as the social mission and outreach coordinator. This role is responsible for coordinating activities of various parish ministries, committees, volunteers and projects while assuring a high degree of outreach to the local community.

The position is approximately 25 hours per week with occasional evening and weekend responsibilities. Go online to: stmichaelcp.org/employment-opportunities for a full job description. Submit cover letter and resume to: Denise.Greene@stmichaelcp.org.

High School principal - Cristo Rey Kansas City High School, Kansas City, Missouri, is seeking a school principal effective on/around July 1, 2021. CRKC provides a Catholic, college and career prep education enhanced by an innovative corporate work study program to culturally diverse, ambitious students with economic need. Founded in 2006 by the Sisters of Charity of Leavenworth, CRKC serves approximately 300 students in grades 9 - 12, drawing students of diverse backgrounds from 64 unique feeder schools across the Greater KC metropolitan area. This position is a 12-month position and is benefits eligible. The complete job description and application process are available at: www.cristoreykc. org/cms/One, click on “About,” then scroll down and click on “Job Opportunities.”

Full-time receptionist - Curé of Ars Parish in Leawood is seeking a full-time receptionist at the parish office to greet and welcome guests, perform general office duties, schedule Mass intentions and manage sacramental recording, documentation and certificates. The ideal candidate would have excellent communication skills, be extremely organized, proficient in Google programs, Word, Excel and have the ability to learn new software programs. Applicants with knowledge of the operations of a Catholic Church preferred. This position offers benefits. Interested candidates, please email resume to the parish manager at: bobkolich@cureofars.com.

Administrative assistant - St. Michael the Archangel Parish is seeking an administrative assistant to serve in the Christian formation & evangelization (CF&E) department. This position provides front office administrative support to two department directors as well as other staff, including, but not limited to, religious education, RCIA, youth sacramental preparation, adult education, youth ministry, vacation Bible school and Catechesis of the Good Shepherd. This is a year-round, full-time position that normally works Monday through Friday from 8:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. with occasional, infrequent evening and weekend duties. For additional details, a comprehensive job description or to apply, please visit: stmichaelcp.org/employment-opportunities or contact Denise Greene at: denise.greene@stmichaelcp.org or (913) 402-3984.

Financial coach – Living paycheck to paycheck? Little or no savings? If you’re struggling with your finances and feeling overwhelmed but don’t know where to turn, I would love to help guide you out of financial stress and into a life of abundance. Free consultation. Call or text Julie at (913) 617-5409 or email: juliekolichbarron@ gmail.com. Dave Ramsey-certified.

Food service - St. Joseph School in Shawnee has a job opening in food service for the 2021-22 school year. The hours are Monday - Friday from 8:30 a.m. - 1:45 p.m. when lunch is offered. Perfect job for a mom. Call Kathy Hirt at (913) 631-7730.

Teacher aide - St. Michael the Archangel Preschool is seeking a teacher aide responsible for assisting the lead teacher in carrying out daily activities in the preschool classroom and incorporating the state regulations and principles of sound Catholic education. If you are interested, please contact Jennie Wente, preschool director, at (913) 402-3971 or send resume and cover letter to: jennie.wente@stmichaelcp.org.

Office manager - St. Lawrence, the Catholic Church at the University of Kansas, seeks a part-time office manager for 20 hours a week. The manager must be personable, faithful and must be excellent at working with volunteers, church business and routine office tasks. Full information can be found at: kucatholic.org/jobs.

Full-time elementary teacher - Sacred Heart School in Ottawa is seeking a full-time elementary teacher for the 2021-22 school year. Candidates must hold a current Kansas teaching license and be certified to teach K - 5. Interested applicants should complete the teacher application process at: www.archkckcs.org. For more information, please contact Lisa Blaes at: lblaes@sacred heartottawa.eduk12.net.

School cafeteria director - Nativity Parish is seeking a director of food service for the 2021-22 school year.

The director must be knowledgeable in all aspects of running a school lunch program: planning menus within the guidelines of KSDE, ordering food and other supplies, processing accounts payable, filing reports with the KSDE/Wellness programs, and supervising employees and volunteers. Competitive salary and benefits. Interested applicants should send a letter of application and resume to the attention of David Kearney at: david. kearney@kcnativity.org or Nativity Parish School, 3700 W. 119th St., Leawood, KS 66209.

Workforce development VISTA summer associate Looking for meaningful summer employment? Catholic Charities of N.E. Kansas is looking for a workforce development VISTA summer associate. This position is from May 24 - Aug. 1. Go online to: https://www.nationalservice.gov/programs/americorps/americorps-programs/ americorps-vista for more information on the VISTA program and stipend information.

Direct support professional - Goodlife Innovations in Lawrence and in Johnson County is urgently hiring direct support professionals to help provide care, teach skills and hang out with adults with disabilities. Full- and parttime shifts available. Average pay of $12 - $15.17 per hour. Apply today at: https://mygoodlife.org/careers/.

Housekeeper - Rockhurst High School is seeking a housekeeper to provide efficient and effective cleaning services to designated areas, meeting the needs and objectives of both the maintenance department and Rockhurst High School. This position is a nonexempt (hourly) year-round position, Monday - Friday, 3 - 11:30 p.m. with a 30-minute lunch. There may be occasional daytime or weekend work. Primary responsibilities include: performing all tasks associated with cleaning designated areas of the school for the purposes of ensuring a safe, clean, attractive and sanitary environment; vacuum carpets and upholstery; dust control mopping of hard-surfaced flooring; damp mopping of flooring; machine buffing and spray cleaning of hard-surfaced flooring; must be conversant with the use and safe operation of mechanical/electrical cleaning equipment as provided by the maintenance department for the fulfillment of cleaning duties; damp dusting of furniture, work surfaces and ledges; cleaning internal glass, removing fingermarks from doors and surrounds; cleaning of toilets, sinks, baths, showers and also the cleaning of bodily fluids from all surfaces, as dictated by local procedures; clean any additional assigned area and carry out any other duties as reasonably required by your manager/supervisor and to clean in any part of the school as designated by your manager/supervisor, in order to meet the needs of cleaning; replace trash can liners, hand towels, hand soap, toilet rolls and all other consumables as required; damp dust all high-level surfaces; report any defects/deficiencies to manager, supervisor or director of facility management; assist with the supervision of work grant program participants; all other job duties as assigned. Must have a high school diploma or the equivalent; a valid driver’s license; the ability and suitability to work in a school-centered environment; the ability to abide by safety procedures in order to maintain a safe working environment for students, visitors and employees. Use all protective equipment and clothing as required for the safe completion of duties; have the ability to met the physical demands of the position, which includes significant lifting, carrying, pushing, pulling, stooping, kneeling, crouching and climbing; the ability to comply with the maintenance department’s health and safety guidelines. Apply by sending a resume to: rsmith@ rockhursths.edu.

Community live-in assistants - L’Arche Heartland of Overland Park serves adults with developmental and intellectual disabilities in day program support services and in residential services. We are seeking assistants who are looking for a unique opportunity in a faith-based organization. We are in immediate need of live-in assistants and potential live-out assistants to work in our day program serving 30 adults. We have a recycling program and community activities. Our core members participate in distributing for Meals on Wheels and Rise Against Hunger. They also attend community events such as the library, movies, bowling and going to parks. We also have a need for live-in and live-out assistants in our five residential homes. If interested, contact Jamie Henderson, community leader, by email at: jamie@larcheks.org.

Part-time chiropractic assistant - Busy chiropractic office in N.W. Olathe (K-10 and Ridgeview Rd.) is looking for a part-time assistant for Fridays from 7 a.m. - 1 p.m. and one or two Saturdays a month from 7 a.m. - 1 p.m., with the possibility of covering additional hours as needed. $12 per hour. Job duties include answering phones, scheduling and checking in patients, insurance, assisting with patient therapies, etc. If you are professional, friendly, hardworking and would like to help others, our office may be the place for you. Must have great phone and computer skills. Must be a people person and have a flexible schedule. Insurance experience is a plus but not necessary. Will train on patient therapies. Ridgeview Chiropractic, located at 17775 W. 106th St., Suite 105, Olathe, KS 66061. Please email resume to Dr. Craig Koshlap at: drk@ridgeview chiropractic.com or fax to (913) 890-7372.

Elementary school principal - St. Gregory Barbarigo Parish in Maryville, Missouri, is seeking a school principal effective on/around July 1, 2021. This parish school serves approximately 125 students (K - 8) and 40 preschool students and seeks an individual who is committed to Catholic education with strong leadership, communication and motivational skills. This position is full time and benefits eligible. The diocese offers a comprehensive benefits program, including medical, dental and vision plans, STD/LTD fully paid by the employer, retirement plans including a 403(b) plan and a defined benefit pension plan. Paid time off includes generous paid holidays, vacation and sick days. Please visit job openings at: www.kcsjcatholic.org; scroll down and click on “Get Started” then on “Job Openings” and finally click on “Click here to view and apply for current openings (Paylocity)” for a complete job description and to apply.

Elementary school principal - Holy Family School in Topeka is seeking an individual with demonstrated skill in spiritual, academic and advancement leadership, particularly in the area of enrollment management leadership for the 2021-22 school year. Ability to understand and speak Spanish is a plus. Holy Family has approximately 161 students in K - 8th grades and 10 preschoolers taught by 14 teachers. Applicants for principal must be practicing Catholics, understand the mission of Catholic schools, and have or be eligible for Kansas licensure in educational leadership. Visit: holyfamilytopeka.net to learn more about the school. Apply online at: www.archkckcs.org.

Deadline for application is April 16.

Part-time servers - Santa Marta is recognized as a premier senior living community in Olathe. You will make a positive difference when you join the Santa Marta team as a server. Responsibilities include: serve meals to residents in a professional and hospitable manner in either independent living or health care neighborhoods; respectful interaction and communication with residents and co-workers as required; work with a team in a professional manner within dining and other departments; use proper food handling and cleaning techniques; setup and clean the dining rooms after each dining session.

Part-time servers are normally scheduled 3 - 5 shifts per week (evenings 4 - 8 p.m. and weekend breakfast, lunch and dinner shifts). $10 - $11 hourly rate, depending on relevant experience. Part-time associates earn paid time off for hours worked. To apply, go online to: santamarta retirement.com, then go to “More,” then scroll down and click on “Careers.” Then scroll down to the bottom of that page and download the application form.

Director of accounting - Donnelly College is a nonprofit, private, Catholic college. Business affairs is responsible for all financial services and reporting for the college.

This requires forward thinking and a “do what it takes” attitude to ensure departmental resources are maximized throughout the year. The director of accounting supervises the business office activities (accounts payable, cash receipts, accounts receivable and student accounts) and acts as a liaison with other department personnel to maintain accounting and operating guidelines. In addition, the director of accounting is responsible for the majority of the monthly accounting reconciliations and journal entries. This position is an integral piece in the financial accounting and reporting function. Must be able to maintain confidentiality and be comfortable handling sensitive information. Must be able to pass a background check and complete Virtus training. Please email cover letter, resume and transcripts to: hr@donnelly with “Director of Accounting” in the subject line.

Positions available - St. Teresa’s Academy in Kansas City, Missouri, has two positions available: full-time staff accountant; and a full-time teaching position for the 2021-22 school year for a science instructor. A job description and application form may be found on our website at: https://stteresasacademy.org/jobs. For more information, email Patty Thompson, director of human resources, at: pthompson@stteresasacademy.org.

Career opportunity - Due to the growth of the Knights of Columbus, we are looking for professional men who are interested in helping fellow Catholics with their faith, family and finances. This is a full-time career opportunity that will allow you to be your own boss and a respected professional member of the community. If you or someone you know is self-motivated, good with time management and has a desire to succeed, this might be the opening you’ve been looking for. Benefits include unlimited professional income potential, flexibility, quality training program and incentive award trips such as Rome, Hawaii and Ireland. There are openings in northeast Kansas and western Missouri. If you want to serve your community, strengthen the church and change the world, call John Mahon at our regional office at (785) 408-8800 or toll free at (855) 356-4849.

APRIL 16, 2O21 | THELEAVEN.ORG Caregiver, homemaker or CNA - Full-time/part-time PRN homemaker positions are available in Johnson County. Work from 4 - 40 hours per week. Weekdays only; no nights, weekends or holidays. Each assignment is usually 2 - 3 hours per client. Visit: www.catholic charitiesks.org/careers, scroll down to “View Job Openings,” then click on “Caregiver Homemaker or CNA” for more information and to apply.

Drivers and aides - Assisted Transportation is now hiring safe drivers and aides to transport students with special needs in Johnson, Wyandotte and Clay County, Missouri, in company vans. Drivers earn $14 - $16 per hour. Aides earn $12 per hour. Part-time and full-time schedules available. CDL not required. Retirees encouraged to apply.

Make a difference in your community by helping those in need. Call (913) 521-4955 for more information. EEO Assistants - Assistants needed to provide support for developmentally disabled adults in a day program setting. Hours are 9 a.m. - 3 p.m. five days a week. Health, dental and vision premiums paid in full after two months of employment. Join us for meaningful, fulfilling relationships with our community. Larcheks.org.

Full-time faculty needed - Donnelly College, located in the heart of Kansas City, Kansas, is in need of full-time faculty in the following fields: math, humanities, nursing, history and geography. The following qualifications are required: master’s degree in specified field or at least 18 graduate credit hours in a closely related field; teaching experience at the college level; philosophically aligned with the mission and values of the college to engage and support our Catholic identity; and practicing Roman Catholic. Must be willing to develop innovative teaching strategies and be committed to diversity and serving a diverse population. Donnelly College is an independent coeducational Catholic institution founded by the Benedictine Sisters of Mount St. Scholastica and sponsored by the Archdiocese of Kansas City in Kansas. Donnelly College offers programs leading to bachelor and associate degrees and certificates. Send letters of interest to: Lisa Stoothoff, vice president of academic and student affairs, at: lstoothoff@donnelly.edu.

Math specialist - Nativity Parish School is seeking a full-time math specialist for the 2021-22 school year as part of our STREAM initiative. The math specialist will be responsible for collaborating with classroom teachers to analyze data and design lessons, lead professional development and create an innovative math experience that actively engages and motivates all students to be successful mathematicians. Experience in classroom teaching, data analysis and leading professional development is preferred. Interested applicants should send a letter of interest and resume to principal David Kearney at: david.kearney@kcnativity.org.

Membership director - St. Lawrence, the church at the University of Kansas in Lawrence, seeks a membership director who invites new students, parents, alumni and friends to become members and supporters. Bachelor’s degree required. Experience in communication, event coordination and fundraising preferred. The director must be a strong and engaging communicator. For more information, go online to: kucatholic.org/jobs.

Director of faith formation - Corpus Christi in Lawrence is seeking a full-time director of faith formation. The director of faith formation is responsible for coordinating all faith formation and sacramental preparation of all adults and children of Corpus Christi. This includes religious education for children not in our parish school, all sacramental preparation and adult religious education.

For a full job description and application information, go online to: www.cccparish.org/jobs then scroll down and click on “Job openings at Corpus Christi.”

Communications director - Queen of the Holy Rosary Parish in Overland Park is creating the position of communications director. The successful candidate will work directly with Father Bill Bruning and the parishioner chairs of the communications committee, the evangelization committee and will coordinate the volunteers who will be responsible for our livestreaming and online presence. The job will also require marketing skills in the form of branding and marketing communications. Interested persons are invited to review the job description and send their resume to: qhradmin@qhr-opks.org.

Drivers - The Mission Project, based in Mission, is seeking a safe, careful driver to transport MP members to and from their place of employment in a company vehicle.

Hours may vary. Must have an excellent driving record. If interested, please contact Alvan at (913) 269-2642.

Small equipment technician - Do you enjoy tinkering and working with your hands? Then this is the job for you!

We are a small, family-owned local company looking for someone who is handy with small equipment and enjoys traveling every now and then. We need team members with a positive attitude who are flexible, dependable, self-motivated, mechanically inclined, customer-service oriented and have great time management skills. Mostly on the job training. Electrical knowledge is a plus. Please send your resume to: Yourcareer101@gmail.com.

Doll dresses - First Communion dresses for American Girl dolls or any 18” dolls. To include dress, veil, shoes, tights, and cross necklace for $35. Call (913) 345-9498 or send an email to: wwelch4@kc.rr.com to order. The dress is on display at Trinity House, 6731 W. 119th St., Overland Park. >> Classifieds continue on page 13

APRIL 16, 2021 | THELEAVEN.ORG

ROSARY RALLY IN HONOR OF OUR LADY OF FATIMA Our Lady of Perpetual Help Parish 3333 Broadway Blvd., Kansas City, Missouri April 18 from 3 - 4:15 p.m.

We will pray the joyful, sorrowful and glorious mysteries of the rosary. Benediction will follow, as well as an opportunity for attendees to enroll in the brown scapular.

For more information, visit the website at: www.rosaryrallieskc.org.

DISABILITY RESOURCE SERIES FOR PARENTS, GUARDIANS AND SELF-ADVOCATES Via Zoom April 22, 29 and May 6 at 8:30 p.m.

Sessions include: “KanCare/Medicaid Basics” (presented by Russell Nittler, KDHE, Senior Manager for Eligibility); “Family Medical Eligibility” (by Russell Nittler); and “Elderly/Persons with Disability Eligibility” (by Russell Nittler). Register online at: www.archkck.org/special-needs.

The Zoom link will be sent the day before each session. Contact Tom Racunas at: tracunas@archkck.org or Jill Reffett at: jill reffett@embraceks.org with questions.

PROJECT CHRYSALIS Via Zoom or Church of the Ascension (St. Luke’s Room) 9510 W. 127th St., Overland Park April 27 at 7 p.m. >> Continued from page 12 Hospice aide - Full-time hospice aide positions available in the Kansas City and surrounding area. Competitive wages and benefits. Shifts to include: M - F daytime only; no weekends; or Tuesday - Saturday/Sunday - Thursday options available. No holidays. Candidates must be CNA or HHA. If no CNA, agency will assist in obtaining HHA certification. Visit: www.catholiccharitiesks.org/careers to learn more about this opportunity and to apply.

Full-time assistant teachers - With multiple locations in Johnson County, Special Beginnings Early Learning Center provides high quality child care in a safe, loving Christian environment. With a balanced curriculum of pre-academics and the right environment, we believe we are providing the children the foundation to e successful in life. We are looking for full-time assistant teachers for all ages who have an excellent work ethic, a heart for children and a willingness to learn more about early childhood education. Experience and/or education is a plus, but we will train the right candidate. Duties include supervising and ensuring the safely and well-being of the children at all times; following predetermined curriculum and daily schedule; decorating the class and keeping classrooms clean and orderly; creating and filling out daily reports for each child; communicating with parent; meeting children’s basic needs (diapers, bottles, etc.). Must be patient and able to respond to difficult situations calmly; have good interpersonal skills with coworkers, parents and children; and be able to lift 25 pounds on a regular basis. There are opportunities for career advancement.

For more information or to apply, call Carolyn Andruss at (913) 894-0131, option 3.

CNA/HHA needed - Aide needed to take care of elderly lady; evenings from 11 p.m. - 7 a.m. in the Topeka area.

Please call (785) 273-4160.

SERVICES Handyman - Furloughed railroader just trying to keep the bills paid for my little family. I advertised here as Father and Son Home Exteriors and Remodeling for 13 years before working for the railroad last year. I can do all carpentry, windows, doors, trim, siding and decks. I can paint, sheetrock and love to do tile. Just about any project you have around your home, I can do. No project too big or too small. Just give me a call at (913) 709-7230 and ask for Josh.

Bankruptcy consultation - If debts are overwhelming you, seek hope and help from compassionate, experienced Catholic attorney, Teresa Kidd. For a free consultation, call (913) 422-0610; send an email to: tkidd@kc.rr. com; or visit the website at: www.teresakiddlaw.com.

Please do not wait until life seems hopeless before getting good quality legal advice that may solve your financial stress.

FREE LIFE INSURANCE QUOTE IN LESS THAN A MINUTE - For your free, no obligation life insurance or final expense quote from a dozen highly rated carriers, visit: www.mcevoyins.com or call (913) 481-2896. Sean McEvoy, Donnelly College graduate, and Bill McEvoy, Ascension parishioner.

CALENDAR/CLASSIFIEDS Project Chrysalis is a ministry offering hope through sacred Scripture and community to parents and grandparents who have lost a child or grandchild. Our mission is to offer support and hope through Scripture in a time of transformation. For more information, including the Zoom invitation link, contact Deacon Ken Billinger at (913) 634-4210 or send an email to: kbillinger@archkck.org.

This group is open to parents or grandparents who have lost children.

BEGINNING EXPERIENCE Savior Pastoral Center 12601 Parallel Pkwy., Kansas City, Kansas April 30 - May 2

Beginning Experience is offering a healing weekend for men and women of all ages who have suffered the loss of a spouse through death, divorce or separation. Reservations are required. For more information, visit the website at: www.beginningexperiencekc. org; send an email to: register.bekc@gmail. com; or contact Laura at (308) 530-1873.

SUDS & SCHOLARSHIPS Boulevard Brewing Company 2501 Southwest Blvd., Kansas City, Missouri May 3 from 6:30 - 9:30 p.m.

Join us for this annual benefit for Holy Name School’s student scholarship fund.

Help support the vibrant and faith-filled community at Holy Name, where 86% of students rely on scholarship to attend. There will be musical entertainment by The Hamptones and food from Jack Stack Barbecue.

You are also to welcome to come in-person.

A limited number of tickets are available for purchase. Limited capacity with safety precautions in place. Learn more online at: one. bidpal.net/holyname21/welcome.

SPECIAL-NEEDS FAMILY CAMP Prairie Star Ranch 1124 California Rd., Williamsburg June 18 - 20

Enjoy a weekend of fun and family at Camp Tekakwitha. Register online at: www. archkck.org/special-needs.

ST. JOSEPH RETREAT: ‘WITH A FATHER’S HEART’ Christ’s Peace House of Prayer 22131 Meagher Rd., Easton June 25 - 27

The retreat will begin on June 25 at 6 p.m. with supper. In this year dedicated to St. Joseph, enter into the movement and develop a deeper relationship with our spiritual father as we learn about consecration to St. Joseph.

For more information, send an email to: info@ christspeace.com or call (913) 773-8255.

CATHOLIC HEART WORKCAMP Kansas City area July 12 - 15

If you know of anyone needing minor home repairs, painting or yard cleanup, contact the managers by email at: chwc.kc@ gmail.com or call (402) 306-9043. You will need to leave a message if you call. Safety guidelines are in place to meet the current CDC guidelines regarding COVID.

Mike Hammer local moving - A full-service mover.

Packing, pianos, rental truck load/unload, storage container load/unload and in-home moving. No job too small. Serving JoCo since 1987. St. Joseph, Shawnee, parishioner. Call Mike at (913) 927-4347 or send an email to: mike@mikehammermoving.com.

We buy houses and whole estates - We are local and family owned, and will make you a fair cash offer. We buy houses in any condition. No fees or commissions and can close on the date of your choice. Selling your house as is never felt so good. Jon & Stacy Bichelmeyer (913) 599-5000

Win disability benefits - Disabled and no longer able to work? Get help winning Social Security disability benefits. Free consultation. Eight years’ experience. No fee unless you win. Call (785) 331-6452 or send an email to: montemace2000@yahoo.com or visit http://www. montemacedisability.org.

CASH FOR YOUR HOME (913) 980-4905 Any condition in the metro area Mark Edmondson - local parishioner http://www.buykcproperty.com

Memory quilts - Preserve your memories in a keepsake quality quilt, pillows, etc. Custom designed from your Tshirt collection, baby clothes, sports memorabilia, neckties . . . Quilted Memories. (913) 649-2704.

Cleaning lady - Reasonable rates; references provided.

Call (913) 209-9234.

Custom countertops - Laminates installed within 5 days. Cambria, granite, and solid surface. Competitive prices, dependable work. Call the Top Shop, Inc., at (913) 962-5058. Members of St. Joseph, Shawnee.

Senior Care Authority - Navigating senior care options can be overwhelming. We’ll help you sort through and understand all your care and living options and point you to vetted resources. Placement assistance is FREE. We do a thorough assessment, do all the research and walk with you as you make these big decisions for you or your loved one. Call (913) 359-8580.

ACT Prep - Founded by a Bishop Miege graduate, Pathway Prep has helped over 250 students during the last four years improve their scores. In-person or virtual sessions available. For more information, visit: pathway prepkc.com and contact Alex Pint at (913) 991-8217 or: alex@pathwayprepkc.com.

REAL ESTATE Farm - Ranch - I am interested in purchasing a farm or ranch. If you have considered selling but would like to stay in a home on the property, then we could work that out. My home parish is Holy Trinity in Lenexa. Please call me if interested or with questions. Thank you and God bless. Dennis Montgomery, (913) 208-1379.

Get Instant Cash Offer on Your Johnson County Home!

Skip the Showings Move on Your Schedule Low Fee Structure Get Started Today! www.FullPriceHomeSale.com Whole Estates Need to sell a home and everything in it?

We buy it all at once in as-is condition.

Call (816) 444-1950 or send an email to: www.wholeestates.com.

FOR SALE HOLY ART Religious items and church supplies Made in Italy http://www.holyart.com Residential lifts - New and recycled. Stair lifts, porch lifts, ceiling lifts and elevators. St. Michael’s parishioners. KC Lift & Elevator at (913) 327-5557. (Formerly Silver Cross - KC) For sale - Double lawn crypt at Resurrection Cemetery Lenexa, Garden of Hope section, double lawn crypt, lot 14A, Space 4. $6500 includes plot, grave liner and transfer fee.

Call Joan at (913) 634-3366.

For sale - Double wide crypt (side-by-side) located in Resurrection Cemetery in Lenexa, in the Sacred Heart Garden Mausoleum. It is a C level (3rd Tier from the ground) vault. Contact Jane May at (913) 393-0634 or kmay1@kc.rr.com.

HOME IMPROVEMENT Rusty Dandy Painting, Inc. – We have been coloring your world for 40 years. Your home will be treated as if it were our own. Old cabinets will be made to look like new. Dingy walls and ceilings will be made beautiful. Woodwork will glow. Lead-certified and insured. Call (913) 341-9125.

STA (Sure Thing Always) Home Repair - Basement finish, bathrooms and kitchens; interior & exterior repairs: painting, roofing, siding, wood replacement and window glazing. Free estimates. Call (913) 579-1835. Email: smokeycabin@hotmail.com. Member of Holy Trinity, Lenexa.

Concrete construction - Tear out and replace stamped, stained or colored patios and drives. Retaining walls, footings, poured-in-place safe rooms, excavation and hauling. Asphalt drives and lots. Fully insured; references. Call Dan at (913) 207-4371 or send an email to: dandeeconst@aol.com.

Local Handyman - Painting int. and ext., wood rot, masonry (chimney repair), gutter cleaning (gutter covers), dryer vent cleaning, sump pump (replace, add new), windows, doors (interior and exterior) honey-do list and more! Member of Holy Angels Parish, Basehor. Call Billy at (913) 927-4118.

13 TOTUS TUUS FOR PEOPLE WITH SPECIAL NEEDS Prince of Peace Parish 16000 W. 143rd St., Olathe July 19 - 23

Come join others and learn about Totus Tuus. Register online at: www.archkck.org/ special-needs.

WAR HORSES FOR VETERANS D-DAY RIDE 5600 W. 183rd St., Stillwell June 6 at 8 a.m.

This motorcycle ride is being hosted by the Father Donnelly Division of the Ancient Order of Hibernians. WHFV is a nonprofit organization that provides equestrian therapy for veterans and first responders. The 103-mile ride will begin at WHFV with stops at American Legion and VFW posts. It will end at Rawhide Harley Davidson, Olathe. Absolutely no alcohol during the ride. The cost is: $25 per rider; $10 per passenger. For registration and details go online to: horsesforveterans.com.

ST. THOMAS AQUINAS GRADE SCHOOL SUMMER CAMPS St. Thomas Aquinas High School 11411 Pflumm Rd., Overland Park June and July

There will be a variety of camps for students entering grades K - 8. Registration and further information are available online at: www.stasaints.net/summercamps. For more information, call (913) 319-2416 or email: btriggs@stasaints.net.

DRC Construction We’ll get the job done right the first time.

Windows - Doors - Decks - Siding Repair or replace, we will work with you to solve your problems. Choose us for any window, door, siding or deck project and be glad you did.

Everything is guaranteed 100% (913) 461-4052 www.windowservicesoverlandpark.com drcconswindows@gmail.com Painting - Diamond Painting, (913) 648-4933, Residential/ Commercial, Exterior/interior, Free Estimate, Affordable, Decks, DiamondPaintKc.com, Kcmo/Overland Park Metropolitan area.

Popcorn ceiling texture removal Cracks repaired and wall painting available.

Call Jerry at (913) 206-1144. 30 years’ experience.

Accepting major credit cards.

Call with questions

CAREGIVING Looking for assisted living at home? - Before you move, call us and explore our in-home care options. We specialize in helping families live safely at home while saving thousands of dollars per year. Call today for more information or to request a FREE home care planning guide. Benefits of Home - Senior Care, www.benefits ofhome.com or call (913) 422-1591.

Caregiving - We provide personal assistance, companionship, care management, and transportation for seniors in their home, assisted living or nursing facilities.

We also provide respite care for main caregivers needing some personal time. Call Daughters & Company at (913) 341-2500 and speak with Laurie, Pat or Gary.

Caring companion - I am a certified nursing assistant with 10-plus years experience with stroke, Alzheimer’s dementia patients. I assist with personal care services and offer non-emergency, medical transportation. Call (816) 859-2252.

WANTED TO BUY Wanted to buy - Old cars or hot rods. Uncompleted project cars in any condition, with or without titles. Cash buyer. Call (913) 980-3559.

Wanted to buy -Do you have a car or truck that you need to get rid of? If you do, CALL ME! I’m a cash buyer. We’re Holy Trinity parishioners.

My name is Mark. (913) 980-4905.

Will buy firearms and related accessories - One or a whole collection. Honest evaluation and top prices paid.

Contact Tom at (913) 238-2473. Member of Sacred Heart Parish, Shawnee.

Wanted to buy - Antique/vintage jewelry, paintings, pottery, sterling, etc. Single pieces or estate. Renee Maderak, (913) 475-7393. St. Joseph Parish, Shawnee.

14

COLUMNISTS

It’s so simple a child can do it

DAILY READINGS THIRD WEEK OF EASTER April 18 THIRD SUNDAY OF EASTER Acts 3: 13-15, 17-19 Ps 4: 2, 4, 7-9 1 Jn 2: 1-5a Lk 24: 35-48 April 19 Monday Acts 6: 8-15 Ps 119: 23-24, 26-27, 29-30 Jn 6: 22-29 April 20 Tuesday Acts 7:51 – 8:1a Ps 31: 3cd-4, 6, 7b, 8a, 17, 21ab Jn 6: 30-35 April 21 Anselm, bishop, doctor of the church Acts 8: 1b-8 Ps 66: 1-3a, 4-7a Jn 6: 35-40 April 22 Thursday Act 8: 26-40 Ps 66: 8-9, 16-17, 20 Jn 6: 44-51 April 23 George, martyr; Adalbert, bishop, martyr Acts 9: 1-20 Ps 117: 1bc, 2 Jn 6: 52-59 April 24 Fidelis of Sigmaringen, priest, martyr Acts 9: 31-42 Ps 116: 12-17 Jn 6: 60-69

I

ncredibly, this Friday will be 136.

At the end of the month, the total will climb to 465.

Those numbers refer to items that I’ve tossed, or will toss, out of my home. The concept is simple: On the first day of the month, toss out one item; on the second, two items; and on the third, three.

Continue like that until the end of the month.

I started this project on a very auspicious date: April 1 (no foolin’). That was Holy Thursday, and I’ve been tossing ever since. It’s both humbling and jarring to realize that there are that many individual things in my home that I don’t need, use or love. And “tossing” doesn’t necessarily mean throwing it in the trash. I have boxes and plastic bags holding things to be donated to charity.

If I, as a single person, have accumulated so much, I can’t imagine what it would be like for families.

And the consequence of all this stuff is seen

MARK MY WORDS

FATHER MARK GOLDASICH Father Mark is the pastor of Sacred Heart Parish in Tonganoxie. He has been editor of The Leaven since 1989.

in this little story: A man went searching for the meaning of life. After several years and many miles, he came to the hut of a holy hermit and asked for enlightenment. The holy woman invited the visitor into her humble dwelling and began to serve him tea.

She filled the pilgrim’s cup and then kept on pouring so that the tea was soon dripping onto the floor.

The visitor watched the overflow until he could no longer re-

strain himself.

“Stop!” he cried.

“It’s full! No more will go in.”

“Like this cup,” said the hermit, “you are full of your own opinions, perceptions, ideas and possessions.

How can I teach you unless you first empty your cup?” (Story adapted from one in Paul J. Wharton’s “Stories and Parables for Preachers and Teachers.”)

This is probably what the early Christians experienced in the Acts of the Apostles: “No one claimed that any of his possessions was his own. . . . There was no needy person among them, for those who owned property or houses

c. 1033 - 1109 This scholarly Italian youth wanted to become a monk, but his father’s disapproval pushed him to a secular life that he later described as dissipated. After his mother died, he moved to France to continue studies with her family.

In 1060, he joined the Benedictines at Bec in Normandy, and in 1078 was elected abbot, which increasingly involved him in civil and church affairs in France and England.

In 1093, he became archbishop of Canterbury, a post held until his death. During his tenure, Canterbury became England’s primatial see, but Anselm was twice exiled over conflicts with English monarchs.

He penned a systematic study of Christian beliefs and many letters to his beloved monks. He is a doctor of the church.

would sell them, bring the proceeds of the sale and put them at the feet of the Apostles, and they were distributed to each according to need” (4:32; 34-35).

My tossing project has definitely been fun, freeing . . . and a bit scary. If you’re doubtful you could find such a large number of “tossable” possessions in your home, start by emptying your junk drawer. (Don’t be ashamed; we all have them.) When I did, two questions constantly emerged: “What the heck is this thing?” and “Why am I holding on to it?”

I bid goodbye to small packets of ketchup, mustard and sauces from fast-food joints.

(Each of those counted for one item tossed!)

I recycled carryout menus (you can easily find those online now) and instructions for equipment I no longer own.

There were dead batteries, Velcro strips, extension cords, tools and a whole host of other things. Some

items just needed to go to their proper home; most others found their way to another home.

And if you add in expired food in your refrigerator or pantry, books and magazines that you’ve read or never will, dried up pens and markers, you can see how easily you can get rid of hundreds of items in your home.

It honestly is freeing. There’s more room, more time for important things, less to dust and less to store. And it’s a great way to pray. When I’m tempted to give up or skip a day, I ponder this little poem from an unknown author: “Go give to the needy sweet charity’s bread./ For giving is living,” the angel said./ “And must I be giving again and again?”/ My peevish, petulant answer ran./ “Oh, no,” said the angel, piercing me through,/ “Just give till the Master stops giving to you.”

Message received, loud and clear!

Jesus’ words of peace convey the heart of the Easter mystery

M Anselm

APRIL 16, 2O21 | THELEAVEN.ORG

y fatherin-law’s father Edward was mistakenly listed as killed in action while serving his country as a pilot in World War I. Serving at the beginning of the war, Edward flew a doublewinged modest plane with fixed landing gear and bombs stacked inside the cockpit.

In one air scuffle, Edward’s plane was shot down. His pilot partner was killed, and Edward’s injuries were so severe that he was put together with seriously wounded soldiers who were expected to die.

A young doctor, brought in to give a

,

JEM SULLIVAN Sullivan is a professor at The Catholic University of America.

second opinion on patients presumed close to death, ended up saving his life.

When Edward recovered and returned home, his family was beyond astonished that

the man they thought had perished in the war was really alive!

In the Gospel, the disciples who had just encountered Jesus on the road to Emmaus and recognized him in the breaking of bread are in the midst of sharing their experience when Jesus appears to them.

The disciples are amazed beyond belief to the point of being startled and terrified, assuming he is a ghost.

But it is Jesus’ words to the disciples that convey the heart of the Easter mystery into the depths of their hearts and minds.

Jesus greets them with his divine gift of peace when he says, “Peace be with you!”

Then Jesus calms their troubled souls when he asks, “Why are you troubled? And why do questions arise in your hearts?”

Before the Easter mystery, we too may discover in our hearts and minds some hidden corner of doubt and disbelief.

Does God really love me so much that he raised his divine son from the dead so that I may rise to new life in him?

This is the message that Peter boldly preaches in the first reading.

Peter brings his audience, and us, to the core of the good news of the Gospel when he says, “The author of life you put to death, but God raised him from the dead; of this we are witnesses.”

“Lord, let your face shine on us,” prays the psalmist.

In the risen Lord Jesus, the radiant face of God’s love and mercy shines on a broken world and into each of our lives. May our astonishment and disbelief transform into joyful faith and abiding peace as we pray: “Speak to me, Lord.”

The Lord is always waiting for you, pope writes to young people VATICAN CITY (CNS) — Faith is a gift that is never imposed on anyone but must be accepted with an open heart, Pope Francis wrote to young people.

“If you think about it, it is very beautiful and very respectful of our freedom,” the pope wrote to young people in the preface to a new book.

Faith “is a gift that must be desired.

Maybe you have sought the Lord

and have not found him, but let me ask you something: How strong was your desire?” the pope wrote. “Seek him with all the passion of your heart, pray, ask, invoke, cry out and he will let himself be found as he promised.”

Taking the form of a letter to “my young friend who is searching,” Pope Francis’ preface introduces a book in Italian by Cardinal Raniero

Cantalamessa about St. Francis of Assisi as described by Brother Pacificus, a famed poet who became one of the first men to join St. Francis after meeting him early in the 13th century.

The book, “Francis: God’s Fool,” was scheduled for release April 9.

Avvenire, the daily newspaper of the Italian bishops’ conference, published the pope’s preface April 7.

LOCAL NEWS

APRIL 16, 2021 | THELEAVEN.ORG

15

Prayer without action and action without prayer are insufficient

“L

et us love not with words but with

INSIDE CATHOLIC CHARITIES

deeds.”

— Pope Francis

April is Volunteer Appreciation Month. A volunteer, by definition, is a person who freely takes part in an activity without the promise of compensation for services rendered. A volunteer is a person who freely gives — just as Jesus freely gives his love and mercy to each one of us.

At Catholic Charities of Northeast Kansas, our volunteers embody this teaching every single day through their generous service. They are an incredible bright light during the dimness of the pandemic.

During the past

“O

K, kids, for this class we are going to play a game,” I said to St. John’s sixth-grade class this Lent.

With masked face and freshly Purelled hands, I gave them each a card face down.

“Don’t turn the card over yet,” I told them as they gazed upon the same blue arabesque backs. “These cards represent the blessings of life that God gives you.”

I was invited to kick off a special project in which the kids were going to study and advocate for the homeless in their community of Lawrence, and this game was designed to get

LAUREN SOLIDUM Lauren Solidum is the executive director of Catholic Charities.

fiscal year, over 7,500 volunteers answered God’s call to serve the least among us. They became the hands and feet of Christ, giving 186,673 hours of service.

They distributed food, coordinated housing for

refugee families, taught financial education classes, prayed for and with the dying and so much more.

The versatility of their skills and talents is second only to the vast breadth and depth of our ministries.

In the Letter of James, we are reminded that prayer without action is insufficient.

Action without prayer

is insufficient: “Indeed someone may say, ‘You have faith and I have works.’ Demonstrate your faith to me without works, and I will demonstrate my faith to you from my works” (2:18).

Thanks be to God that Catholic Charities is a place where both are abundantly present. As we have seen, more clearly than ever during the pandemic, Catholic Charities is a vital extension of the pastoral care provided by our parishes, drawing the people in the pews to enact their faith and bring those on the peripheries back into contact with our beloved church through service, love and friendship.

Our doors have remained open by

the willingness of our volunteer workforce to be that support, that comfort and that provider of physical necessities to families in need for the last 65 years here in northeast Kansas.

During the World Day for the Poor (November 2019), Pope Francis called us to serve “the treasure of the church” — the poor — and warns us that being labeled “Christian” or “Catholic” is not enough to follow Jesus.

The volunteers at Catholic Charities represent a muchneeded movement in our country to not only recognize the poor and vulnerable in our communities, but more importantly, to serve them physically, emotionally and spiritually. In a country where so much

so often is polarizing or political, this movement is needed perhaps now more than ever.

Although the Lenten season is behind us, we can still strive to fulfill our Lenten commitments of loving and serving our neighbors in need.

On behalf of all of our volunteers here at Catholic Charities, I pray that each of us has the courage to selfexamine where in our lives we’ve fallen short prioritizing the poor around us. O God, grant us the willingness to answer your call, as our volunteers at Catholic Charities have, on behalf of those in need.

Thanks be to God for those who share their talents with Catholic Charities of Northeast Kansas.

Only change can fix a broken system DO UNTO OTHERS

DEACON BILL SCHOLL Deacon Scholl is the archdiocesan consultant for social justice. You can email him at: socialjustice@ archkck.org.

them thinking about the advantages and disadvantages we are born into.

“OK, turn your cards over. If you have a face card, you are

royalty, go to this side of the room. All you others . . . well, you’re the lower cards; go to this side.”

I announce the prizes: movie passes, restaurant gift cards, a big bag of candy. Enthusiasm for this game suddenly improves.

I distribute to those who received lower cards two Starbursts each and explain this

is currency.

The rules are simple: They are to try and get 20 Starbursts to purchase one of three prizes by persuading the others to give them enough; however, there is no sharing of the prize.

(How do you share your house with the homeless?)

I then turn to the royalty. They get a box of Starbursts, 23 candies in each.

The trading game ensues to predictable results. Those who start with the most get the prizes and share whatever they have left over with those who don’t. Some lower card kids hustle, but don’t quite make it, while many just give up.

We debrief on what happened and how it makes them feel.

Some feel bad because they started off with so much, compared to others. Those who received lower cards all feel frustrated, and many gave up so someone else from their group could have a chance.

We talk about how the homeless in Lawrence often feel that way. I share stories of conversations I’ve had with them: “You think it’s temporary, but you learn that once you go under the bridge, you don’t come back,” and “In the mornings, people just step over me like I am a piece of trash.”

We talk about how often we like to think

the homeless are there because of bad choices, but maybe there is more to it. Maybe they feel like the game is stacked against them and they just can’t win.

I then have them hold their cards up to the sky as I ask, “What do you see?”

They, of course, see their numbered or face card. “Now as God looks on from heaven, what does he see?” He sees the cards are all the same. He loves us all.

“So what do you suppose God wants of us in this game?”

A quiet girl responds, “To make it fair,” to nodding assent of the group. “And how do we make it fair?”

Change the game.

16

LOCAL NEWS

VACCINATED

A

APRIL 16, 2O21 | THELEAVEN.ORG

PHOTOS BY JAY SOLDNER

rchbishop Joseph F. Naumann and Kansas City, Kansas, Mayor David Alvey both received their first COVID-19 vaccine on April 5. The mayor and archbishop were vaccinated at the Unified Government Public Health Department’s vaccination site located in the Kansas National Guard facility.

“With the widespread availability of the vaccines, we have seen dramatic drops in the number of positive cases, hospitalizations and deaths from COVID,” Archbishop Naumann said in a statement concerning the vaccine.

“The vaccines are not only helping to prevent the spread of COVID, but they also are allowing businesses, churches and schools to reopen and return to normal. This is beneficial to the mental, emotional and economic health of individuals and the community.”

All adults in Kansas age 16 and up are now eligible to receive COVID-19 virus vaccines.

Through the Vaccine Finder website at: vaccinefinder.org/search, Kansans can search for a place and a time convenient to them and reserve their spot. The site also allows you to select the specific vaccine you’re looking for.

Archbishop Joseph F. Naumann and Kansas City, Kansas, Mayor David Alvey answer questions from reporters before receiving their COVID-19 vaccinations.

Registered nurse Erin Kersgieter gives Archbishop Joseph F. Naumann his first dose of the COVID-19 vaccine on April 5 at the Kansas National Guard Armory in Kansas City, Kansas. Although the archbishop actually had COVID last fall, it is recommended that even those who have had the virus be vaccinated.

A nurse hands the archbishop his vaccine card stating the date and type of vaccine he received. He will return that card for completion when he gets his second dose. Recipients of the vaccine are encouraged to put their completed card in a safe place.

The archbishop relaxes in a waiting room for 15 minutes after receiving the vaccine to make sure he has no adverse reaction to the shot.